Save Three Sisters Springs
Three Sisters Springs is a complex of three spring areas, with many vents and sand boils that help feed Kings Bay, the headwaters of Crystal River in Citrus County, Florida. These springs also constitute one of the most important natural warm-water refuges for the endangered Florida manatee.
Kings Bay and the Three Sisters Springs also attract large numbers of boaters, recreational divers, snorkelers, and swimmers, many of whom seek out manatees for a close viewing experience. The influx of visitors, primarily there to see manatees, provides a major economic impact to the Crystal River community.
The mouth of the Three Sisters run is blocked by concrete posts to prevent boat access; only swimmers, canoers, and kayakers can enter. The land around the springs is private and posted and much of it has been extensively dredged to allow homes to be built along the channels and have access to Kings Bay.
The Three Sisters Springs property is in danger of being developed and land acquisition of the springs and vulnerable parts of the spring basin remains the single most important protection strategy.
Three Sisters is a critical refuge for the manatee, and it would truly be a tragedy if they were to lose this habitat.